Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest Posts

Romance blooms at Chicago’s lovebird-led restaurants

There’s no better was to celebrate Valentine’s Day than an intimate dinner for two. And there’s really nothing more fitting than booking a favorite Chicago restaurant…

14 Chicago neighborhood bars where you can drink like a local

There are neighborhood bars in every corner of the Chicago, from basement dives to old-school taverns. The one thing they all have in common? They’re…

Explore Chicago’s hidden underground

There’s so much to see on the streets of Chicago. But most people never see what’s lurking just below the surface. The city hides layers…

Two of Chicago’s most historic hotels are also its most haunted. While guests at the Congress Plaza and The Drake enjoy luxury, comfort and meticulous attention to detail, they also revel in ghostly lore – particularly during Halloween season.

The Green Mill in Uptown exterior marquee at night

Music, Nightlife

7 cozy Chicago hangouts with cool music

Chicago is a music city, where major acts fill stadiums and concert halls, raising the excitement of roaring crowds to fever pitch. But Chicago is…

The Egyptian Gallery at the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures

Free & cheap, Museums

10 Chicago museums for $20 or less

World-class arts and culture on a budget? Chicago has you covered. Here are 20 museums and attractions with admission fees of $20 or less —…

Arts, culture & entertainment, Tours & attractions

10 things you should absolutely do on the Chicago Riverwalk

The city’s award-winning Riverwalk transformed the Chicago’s riverfront from an industrial area for shipping barges to a waterfront oasis that’s one of the Loop’s most…

Blog, Tours & attractions

7 photo spots for the best Chicago skyline views

The Chicago skyline is easily one of the most iconic cityscapes in the world. So if you're going to take a trip to Chicago, it makes sense that you'd want to grab the perfect city shot while you're there.